The Idaho House has passed legislation banning any public money from going to organizations that provide abortions.
The Republican-led chamber Tuesday voted 52-17 in approving the measure that is expected by both backers and opponents to be challenged in federal court if it becomes law.
Federal and state law already ban public funding for abortion except in certain circumstances, such as when a pregnancy results from rape or incest, or endangers the pregnant woman’s life. But health care providers who perform abortions can receive public funding for other medical services. The bill seeks to cut off that funding.
Republican Representative Bryan Zollinger says the legislation would cut off about $500,000 annually, mainly to Planned Parenthood.
Democratic Representative Melissa Wintrow says the legislation was an attack on Planned Parenthood and the many health services it provides that include cancer screening, pregnancy testing, and birth control. Opponents say the bill also targets qualified Medicaid providers, which under federal law must be included in exceptions and allowed to receive taxpayer dollars.
The Idaho attorney general’s office has warned lawmakers that the legislation would likely draw lawsuits. (AP)
